What Is a Chamber of Commerce?

We at the Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce are often asked, “What do you do at the Chamber of Commerce?” The simple answer to the question is, “We Drive Business." 

Ours is a business organization dedicated to helping local businesses and assuring the areas business climate is profitable and vibrant. A Chamber of Commerce accomplishes the task by educating its members on the most up-to-date business practices; providing opportunities to connect with other businesses and the consumers; advocating on all levels of government to provide a desirable business climate; and support economic development/redevelopment to the benefit of business owners and the residents of the area.

On a daily basis, the Chamber of Commerce fields requests from people from around the nation, and around the world, regarding this area. Questions are as simple as “Where might I find a good plumber?” to “Do you have time to meet with a delegation of business leaders from the Republic of Kazakhstan?”

Those asking about the area are provided a packet of information including maps, a directory of businesses, letters of introduction from local entrepreneurs, attractions, and information about the area including a list of available rental properties and a listing of realtors. 

The Chamber provides speakers from a variety of backgrounds to inform our members about up-to-date marketing practices including how to better use social networking platforms.  Other educational subjects include HR practices, health and wellness, regional growth opportunities, financial stability, etc.  Our Chamber is one of only a few in the state offering a Green Certification Program to promote sustainability for local businesses.  Sponsored by the Franciscan Sister of our Lady of Perpetual Help, our members now have a way to show consumers they are working toward a “greener” future.

The organization is concerned about the five communities we serve including; Des Peres, Glendale, Kirkwood, Oakland and Warson Woods, but we also understand our role in promoting the St. Louis region and beyond.  That is why we partner with other local chambers including the RCGA, Fenton and West County just to mention a few.  Additionally, our Chamber is a member of the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) on the national level.  While we don’t always agree with positions taken by the US Chamber and the Missouri Chamber, we do follow their agenda’s closely and participate or support those issues that might affect our local economy.

The Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce is chaired this year by Hardy Washington with State Farm Insurance in Kirkwood. Hardy and the board of directors are dedicated to driving business and growing the local economy.  Additionally, we are dedicated to benefiting the local consumer by providing the best products and services offered through our members. Look for the Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce membership plaque hanging on the wall the businesses you visit and know that each member is there supporting the fine community in which we live and work.